1 B2 idiomatic informal
To analyse a situation by systematically imagining different scenarios and their consequences.
"The campaign team gamed out every possible debate question to prepare the candidate."
separable
game out
B2 informal separable transitive
To think through a situation strategically by considering possible scenarios and outcomes.
In plain English
To imagine all the ways something could play out, like thinking through moves in a game.
What does "game out" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 idiomatic slang
In gaming, to complete all available content or modes in a video game.
"I've totally gamed out the new RPG — there's nothing left to unlock."
separable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To play a game through to its conclusion — to run all the plays out.
Actually means
To imagine all the ways something could play out, like thinking through moves in a game.
Usage tip
Common in strategic, political, and business contexts. Gained popularity in US political and military jargon. Also used in gaming culture to mean exhausting all content in a game.
Words that pair with "game out"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
scenario strategy outcome situation plan option
How to conjugate "game out"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
game out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
games out
he/she/it
Past simple
gamed out
yesterday
Past participle
gamed out
have + pp
-ing form
gaming out
continuous
Hear "game out" in the wild
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